Bunker Sand Renovation

Over the past two weeks, a contractor has been employed to install a new layer of sand in all of our bunkers.



A crew of 8 have been used to apply the sand throughout the course and streamline the process

The sand being used is from a local mine and is called "G Angle". Different from the sand that has been used in the past, this sand is "crushed" at the mine to create "angular" granuals. Most Florida sand is round in shape and can create softer playing conditions within the bunkers due to its structure and ability to compact. The "G Angle" meets the USGA recommendations for bunker sand.

This new sand, due to its varying angles, resists compaction and so doesn't allow the ball to sink into the profile.



New sand dumped into the green side bunker on hole 17 ready for spreading

During this process, our own staff members have been hard at work preparing several bunkers for the new sand. Over 10 bunkers had all of the original sand removed due to contamination from organic material and drainage gravel.



The old bunker sand from over 10 bunkers has been removed and stored at the maintenance facility

Over 650 tons of the sand has been installed throughout the course and is now providing consistent playing conditions and a beautiful contrast between the sand and the green turfgrass surrounding it.

Please be aware that it will take "some" time for the sand to settle. Daily raking with our bunker raking machines and the use of irrigation water will help with this process.


Posted by David Dore-Smith
Director of Golf Course and Grounds Maintenance
Copperleaf Golf Club

Location:Copperleaf Golf Club

Deep Tine Aerification

Last week all greens were "Deep Tine Aerified" using a Verti-Drain machine borrowed from a neighboring golf club.

Using a penetrometer, a device used to measure compaction, it was discovered that our greens soil was substantially compacted 4 inches below the surface. This compaction was caused by our Toro Aerifiers in that the tines used when coring or spiking the greens are limited to this 4 inch depth. Over time, a "hard pan" is created and prevents water penetration, restricts root growth and oxygen exchange.
The Vert-Drain unit can be set to a depth of 10 inches using small 3/8" tines that have very little impact on the putting surface. In fact, once rolled, the greens were ready for play.

A noticeable improvement in turf quality was quickly realized after the deep tine application including a substantial improvement in water penetration from our sprinklers.
I look forward to this cultural practice continuing monthly throughout the golfing season and helping to provide quality greens.
Posted by David Dore-Smith
Director of Golf Course and Grounds Maintenance
Copperleaf Golf Club

Location:Copperleaf Golf Course

What about this "Post"?

At the October Greens and Grounds Committee meeting, the use of the 150 yard pole, located in the center of all par 4 and par 5 fairways was discussed.

Interestingly, there was much discussion regarding the need of such a device considering Copperleaf utilizes both GPS and Laserlink prisms to help golfers with their yardage. Several attendees commented that they use the pole as an indicator for their shot direction whereas others said that it detracted from the beauty of the course.

Unknown to many is that our new GPS units have the ability for the user to "tap" the screen and position a marker at their desired landing location on the hole to determine distance.

It was decided to remove the poles for the immediate future and to gather member feedback to determine if the poles should be replaced.

The Green Committee would like to hear from you with your thoughts and suggestions regarding the use, and need, of the current 150 yard marker. Please email David Dore-Smith with your comments. David's email is:

davidd@copperleafgc.com



The "home made" 150 yard pole, as seen here on hole 9, has been in use for 9 years at Copperleaf

Posted by David Dore-Smith
Director of Golf Course and Grounds Maintenance
Copperleaf Golf Club

Location:Copperleaf Golf Club